International Legal Ethics & Professional Responsibility Advanced
An advanced course examining professional independence, conflicts of interest, confidentiality, duties to courts and clients, integrity, accountability and ethical responsibilities in international legal practice.
Academy pass mark: 80%
Public course: Anyone may study this course before applying for a Court service role.
Module 1 — Advanced Principles of Legal Ethics
Students examine the foundational principles governing professional legal conduct, including integrity, independence, competence, honesty and responsibility to the administration of justice.
Module 2 — Professional Independence and Conflicts of Interest
Students analyse professional independence, actual and potential conflicts of interest, disclosure obligations, informed consent and safeguards designed to protect the integrity of legal representation.
Module 3 — Confidentiality, Privilege and Information Duties
Students examine duties concerning confidential information, legal privilege where applicable, information security and the circumstances in which disclosure may be required or permitted.
Module 4 — Duties to Courts, Tribunals and Legal Institutions
Students analyse duties of candour, honesty and fairness owed to courts and tribunals and examine the relationship between professional advocacy and the proper administration of justice.
Module 5 — Client Duties and Responsible Representation
Students examine duties to clients, including competence, communication, informed decision-making, avoidance of improper conduct and the management of professional relationships.
Module 6 — Accountability, Discipline and International Practice
Students examine professional accountability, disciplinary mechanisms, ethical risk management and the challenges of maintaining consistent professional standards across international and cross-border legal practice.